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Financial Assistance

Vermont Homebuyer Programs

Discover financial assistance programs that make homeownership more affordable for Vermont residents. From down payment assistance to low-interest mortgages, learn how to access thousands in savings.

Primary Programs

VHFA Programs

The Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) offers comprehensive programs to help first-time homebuyers achieve homeownership with affordable financing and assistance.

VHFA Mortgage Plus

A comprehensive first-time homebuyer program combining affordable mortgages with down payment assistance.

Key Features:

  • Down payment assistance up to 4% of the purchase price
  • Can be used in combination with other assistance programs
  • Competitive fixed interest rates
  • Assistance can be used for down payment and/or closing costs

Eligibility:

  • First-time homebuyer (no home ownership in past 3 years)
  • Complete homebuyer education course
  • Meet income and purchase price limits
  • Purchase price limits vary by county

First-Time Homebuyer Loan

Low down payment mortgage options designed specifically for Vermont's first-time buyers.

Key Features:

  • As low as 3% down payment required
  • No private mortgage insurance (PMI) on some programs
  • Competitive interest rates below market average
  • 30-year fixed rate mortgages available

Eligibility:

  • Must be purchasing primary residence in Vermont
  • Income limits: typically $90,000-$120,000 (varies by county)
  • Credit score minimum: 640+
  • Complete 8-hour homebuyer education course
Financial Assistance

Down Payment Assistance

Multiple programs offer grants and forgivable loans to help with down payments and closing costs, reducing the cash you need to buy a home.

Down Payment Assistance Grants

$2,500 - $7,500
Grant (No Repayment)

Free money to help with down payment and closing costs. These grants do not need to be repaid.

  • Income at or below 80% of area median income
  • First-time homebuyer status
  • Complete homebuyer education
  • Must be combined with VHFA mortgage

Forgivable Second Mortgage

Up to $15,000
Forgivable Loan

A second mortgage that is forgiven over time as long as you remain in the home.

  • 0% interest rate
  • Forgiven after 10-15 years of occupancy
  • Must remain in home as primary residence
  • No monthly payments required

Closing Cost Assistance

$1,000 - $5,000
Grant or Low-Interest Loan

Help covering closing costs including attorney fees, title insurance, and other settlement expenses.

  • Based on income and need
  • May be grant or low-interest loan
  • Combined with other VHFA programs
  • Reduces out-of-pocket expenses at closing

Program Benefits

Vermont's homebuyer programs offer substantial financial advantages that make homeownership more accessible and affordable.

3% minimum

Lower Down Payments

Put down as little as 3% instead of the traditional 20%, making homeownership accessible sooner.

Below market

Competitive Rates

Access to below-market interest rates that can save you thousands over the life of your loan.

Save $100-300/mo

No PMI Options

Avoid private mortgage insurance on select programs, reducing your monthly payment significantly.

Up to $7,500

Closing Cost Help

Receive assistance with closing costs, reducing the cash you need to bring to the settlement table.

Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

Understanding the eligibility criteria helps you determine which programs you qualify for and how to prepare your application.

First-Time Buyer Definition

  • No ownership of a principal residence in the past 3 years
  • Exception: Single parents and displaced homemakers may qualify
  • Applies to all borrowers on the loan
  • Must be purchasing in Vermont

Income Limits by County

  • Chittenden County: $106,800 (1-2 people), $122,820 (3+ people)
  • Most other counties: $88,000 (1-2 people), $101,200 (3+ people)
  • Higher limits for targeted areas
  • Based on gross household income

Credit Requirements

  • Minimum credit score: 640 (most programs)
  • Some programs require 680+
  • Must demonstrate stable employment history
  • Debt-to-income ratio typically under 45%

Property Eligibility

  • Must be primary residence (no investment properties)
  • Purchase price limits: $350,000-$450,000 (varies by county)
  • Single-family homes, condos, and some multi-family (2-4 units)
  • Must meet property condition standards

Important Note

Income and purchase price limits vary by county and are updated annually. Contact a VHFA-approved lender for current limits in your area. Additionally, some targeted areas may have higher limits or relaxed requirements.

How to Apply

Application Process & Timeline

Follow these steps to access Vermont's homebuyer programs. The entire process typically takes 2-4 months from start to finish.

1

Complete Homebuyer Education

1-2 days (online) or 1 day (in-person)

Start with the required 8-hour homebuyer education course.

  • Available online or in-person statewide
  • Covers budgeting, mortgages, home maintenance, and more
  • Certificate valid for 2 years
  • Cost: typically $50-$100
2

Find a VHFA-Approved Lender

1-2 weeks

Work with a lender who participates in VHFA programs.

  • Browse VHFA's list of approved lenders
  • Interview multiple lenders to compare rates
  • Discuss which programs you qualify for
  • Gather required financial documentation
3

Get Pre-Approved

3-7 business days

Obtain pre-approval to understand your budget and strengthen offers.

  • Submit full loan application
  • Provide income, asset, and employment documentation
  • Lender will check credit and verify information
  • Receive pre-approval letter showing loan amount
4

Find Your Home & Make an Offer

Varies (2 weeks - 6 months)

House hunt within your approved price range and make an offer.

  • Work with a real estate agent
  • Stay within VHFA purchase price limits
  • Submit offer with pre-approval letter
  • Property must meet program requirements
5

Final Loan Processing

30-45 days

Complete the mortgage application process and meet all conditions.

  • Property appraisal ordered and completed
  • Home inspection and any negotiations
  • Final loan underwriting and approval
  • Clear any remaining conditions
6

Close on Your Home

1-2 hours

Sign final documents and receive keys to your new Vermont home!

  • Final walkthrough of property
  • Review and sign closing documents
  • Bring required funds for closing
  • Receive keys and begin your homeownership journey

Total Timeline: 2-4 Months

From starting homebuyer education to receiving your keys. Timeline varies based on housing market conditions and how quickly you find your home.

Ready to Access These Programs?

Take the first step toward affordable homeownership in Vermont. Visit VHFA to learn more about program details and find approved lenders, or contact our team for personalized guidance.

VHFA Contact Information

  • Phone: 1-800-339-5866
  • Email: info@vhfa.org
  • Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM EST

Next Steps

  • Review current income and purchase price limits
  • Enroll in homebuyer education course
  • Find a VHFA-approved lender in your area